Mindy Knows

{The setting: Susie’s cozy backyard which she transformed into a charming outdoor bistro for the evening.}

Saturday’s dinner at Susie’s was such a wonderful experience! Six of us collaborated on a Chef’s Tasting Menu which meant 6+ fabulous courses of exquisitely prepared salads, entrees, and desserts which Susie and Lisa thoughtfully paired with wine. The conversation and wine flowed freely, each bite was savored, and the company was exceptional. We arrived at 5 and carried on until midnight… Makes the me think the Europeans are onto something with their 3+ hour long dinners and eating in courses. Truly, I feel so fortunate to have this group of girlfriends in my life.

{Top Chefs: Susie, Gina, Lisa, Sarah, Mindy}

{A selection of artisan cheeses , bread, and champagne grapes}

{The tasting menu + wine pairings}

{Gina (who’s starting to show! ) and Sarah preparing their courses}

{Sarah prepping her crab cakes. I need this recipe!}

{Summer Corn Salad preparation}

{Left to right: Lisa, Susie, Sarah, Mindy, Gina, Sonja}

Course 1: Crab Cakes by Chef Sarah paired with Mumm’s Brut Prestige, Napa Valley

Course 2: Summer Corn Salad prepared by Chef Mindy, paired with DaVinci Pinot Grigio, 2008

Course 3: North African FIsh Stew prepared by Chef Lisa, paired with Kirkland Chardonnay, Napa Valley 2009

Course 4: Watermelon Tomato Salad prepared by Chef Gina, paired with Chandon Blanc de Noir

Course 5: Grilled Halibut and Risotta prepared by Chef Susie, paired with Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir, Central Coast 2009

Course 6: Stuffed Bell Peppers prepared by Chef Sonja, paired with Apothic Red 2009

Course 7: Ricotta filled crepes prepared by Chef Susie with berries and Grand Marnier sauce. (Not pictured: Chocolate Chip Cookies by Chef Gina.)

{Leftovers… that didn’t last long! }